"These are the people who will be taking care of us one day," Dr. David Hildebrandt said. "We're here for Scouting."

Last year, 814 Slidell, Pearl River, and Lacombe Scouts experienced the teamwork and adventure that is at the heart of the 104-year-old Boy Scouts of America program. Stepping forward to ensure that Scouting continues to thrive in the Cypress District of the Southeast Louisiana Council were civic leaders from throughout the north shore who attended the 2014 Cypress Eagle Social hosted April 10 by Bruce and Lisa Clement of Slidell.

Cypress District volunteers have a June 30 deadline by which to raise $34,000. Of that number, $14,000 is being raised through Friends of Scouting, families with direct ties to the program. The remaining $20,000 is being sought from Scout leaders, such as those assembled at the Clements for a night of fine dining, silent auctions, entertainment and fellowship.

"We've had a good year in Cypress District but, overall, Scouting has been on a 30-year decline. We were the only district in the state last year that saw growth, and we had a 4 percent growth," explained Cypress District Executive Jonathan Barfield. "Things are looking up in Cypress."

While the lure of Scouting may be fishing, camping, and other fun, outdoor activities, the leadership training that is integrated into the programming has the most lasting impact on a Scout's life. "Any Scout that makes to Eagle automatically has a leg up in life," Barfield said.

Bruce Clement echoed the importance of supporting Scouting.

"Scouting molds the lives of the young people in our community who will be running our businesses and our city," Clement said. "They need to be taught about values and honor and integrity. Scouting does that."

Stepping foward immediately to support the cause were representatives of the Rotary Club of Slidell Northshore, who donated $1,000 toward the campaign goal. The check was presented by club President Steve Kernahan, who was flanked by a half-dozen fellow Rotarians.

Dr. David Hildebrandt, Chairman of the Cypress District's Friends of Scouting, joined the Clements, Barfield, Boy Scouts of America Development Director Tracy Jones, fellow Host Committee members David Kaufmann, Lou Thomas, Mike Noto and Cameron Warren in thanking the Rotarians and encouraging continued support.

"These are the people who will take care of us one day," Hildebrandt said. "We're here for Scouting."

For more information on supporting Cypress District, contact Barfield by calling 504.889.0388 or toll-free at 800.394.9410, or by visiting www.bsa-selacouncil.org.